Community education officer : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and diplomates, a degree or HND/foundation degree in the following subjects may increase your chances of employment:

• community education;
• youth work;
• community development;
• sociology/social policy;
• social sciences;
• educational studies;
• English or communication studies;
• sport development.

For most posts, a degree plus relevant paid or voluntary community experience is required. Many entrants come from a youth and community background, while others have teaching or adult tutoring qualifications and experience. Some postgraduate courses in community work or community education will accept students with an ordinary degree if they have relevant experience. Positions are also available to undertake work based learning where postgraduate qualifications are obtained while working.

If you have extensive experience, entry is possible without a degree, especially for posts within the voluntary sector, or posts linked closely with recreational or family activities. This is increasingly difficult and career progression is likely to be limited as roles with responsibility for policy development and strategic planning are usually restricted to those with academic qualifications. Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• excellent interpersonal and communication skills;
• the ability to relate to, motivate and empathise with a wide range of people from different backgrounds;
• a demonstrable respect for equality and diversity;
• an understanding of peoples’ different value bases;
• persistence and resilience, as results are often not immediate and outcomes cannot be guaranteed;
• a range of group-work skills, from creating and leading a group to being a participative member;
• the ability to work independently, making decisions and using initiative to establish projects;
• good planning and organising skills;
• a high level of creativity and problem-solving skills - helping people to overcome barriers can be challenging;
• a flexible approach and the ability to cope with change;
• awareness of, and the ability to promote, equal opportunities practices;
• ability to interpret, communicate and implement complex information;
• ability to reflect constructively on current practice and adapt accordingly.

Students should try to get involved in volunteer work, since this will provide relevant experience and help you decide if community work is really for you. Contact your local volunteer bureau or student volunteer centre. You should also visit the YouthNet  online volunteer matching service for advice and details of groups in the UK. Your university careers service may be able to advise you of widening participation initiatives and vacancies within your institution. Finding paid vacancies will often be the result of networking and maintaining contacts made as a result of voluntary experience.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.